Fajã dos Vimes – Fragueira – Portal

This linear route follows the southern coast of São Jorge and connects three points: it starts at Fajã dos Vimes, passes through Fajã da Fragueira, and ends at Portal.

The starting point is located next to the recreational port of Fajã dos Vimes, which also serves as a bathing area. If you fancy it, you can take a dip in the Atlantic before you begin. While still in the fajã, it’s worth stopping at the craft workshop, where traditional quilts continue to be made by hand, and trying a coffee grown and prepared right here.

Cross the fajã heading west and follow an earthen path that runs along the cliff edge. In this area, incense trees (Pittosporum undulatum) dominate, and the trail intersects with PR 02 SJO – Fajã dos Vimes – Serra do Topo. Until you reach Fragueira, the island of Pico accompanies you on your left.

At Fajã da Fragueira, the path passes through terraces with vineyards and traditional wine cellars. Take the opportunity to see the ruins of the house where maestro and composer Francisco de Lacerda lived, who resided here for eight years in the years preceding the First World War.

From this point onwards, descend by an old stone staircase—the surface can be slippery, so tread carefully—towards Portal. Simply follow the signage to the church, where the route comes to an end.